If you decide not to sight translate a document, what should you do?

If you decide not to sight translate a document, what should you do?

• A. Use the "Say No" Model / Steps: Be gracious; Offer 2-3 Choices; Explain / Give Reasons.
• B. Summarize the document to save time.
• C. Immediately translate everything exactly words.
• D. Ignore the issue and continue.

Answer: (A)

When you can’t sight translate a document, respond with a Say No approach: be gracious; offer 2-3 alternatives; explain the reasons. Be gracious by acknowledging the document and your current limitation, and communicating clearly and promptly. Then present two to three practical options you can provide instead of translating on the spot. For example, you can offer to (1) give a concise summary of the document, (2) paraphrase the essential details in plain language, or (3) help arrange another interpreter who can sight translate or schedule a time to handle the document. Finally, explain why this is the best course—it protects accuracy, avoids misinterpretation, and maintains professional integrity and trust with the client.

When you can’t sight translate a document, respond with a Say No approach: be gracious; offer 2-3 alternatives; explain the reasons.

Be gracious by acknowledging the document and your current limitation, and communicating clearly and promptly. Then present two to three practical options you can provide instead of translating on the spot. For example, you can offer to (1) give a concise summary of the document, (2) paraphrase the essential details in plain language, or (3) help arrange another interpreter who can sight translate or schedule a time to handle the document. Finally, explain why this is the best course—it protects accuracy, avoids misinterpretation, and maintains professional integrity and trust with the client.